變色龍為什么會變顏色？“為了能和周圍的環境一致以便保護自己。”相信很多人都會這么回答。可惜這個說法只對了那么一點點。真實的情況又如何呢？下面這篇文章可以給你一點啟示。

Chameleons are slow moving lizards that are well known for having the ability to change colors. Most people think chameleons change colors to match their environment but that's just something parents tell you because they don't know the truth.

There are lots of reasons for chameleons to change colors. They can't turn their color into polka-dot, bright orange or plaid, to fit into their surroundings. Light, temperature, mood and health are all reasons these lizards change colors. They reflect light and change their color accordingly. A chameleon will also make itself flat and dark so it can absorb more heat. During the mating process, when it feels threatened and when it's protecting its territory, a chameleon will also change colors. A sick chameleon will stay pale because they don't have the energy to change colors.

Most chameleons change between green, brown and gray - the colors of their surroundings. Each kind of chameleon has its own color range. Chameleons can change their color because of a very complex cell system. Beneath its transparent skin are several cell layers which contain pigments. We also have pigments which cause our skin to darken in the sun. By opening and closing cells called melanophores, chameleons change their skin colors. The cells direct sunlight to specific pigments that reflect the light back in different colors.

pigment: 色素

melanophore: 黑色素細胞

（英語點津Annabel編輯）